Mid Ulster Local Economic Partnership launches new AI Business programme aimed at helping local businesses
Mid Ulster Local Economic Partnership (LEP) has launched its new AI Business Programme, aimed at helping local businesses explore and adopt Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies to boost productivity, drive innovation and enhance competitiveness.
The programme forms part of the Mid Ulster LEP Action Plan 2026-2028 and reflects the LEP’s commitment to supporting businesses to adopt emerging technologies, improve efficiency and prepare for future growth opportunities.
The programme will support micro and small businesses across Mid Ulster to better understand how AI can be applied within their operations.
The initiative has been designed to address barriers to AI adoption by providing practical, tailored support that helps businesses identify opportunities for growth, innovation and operational improvement.
The programme will be delivered by Digital Performance Lab and will provide participating businesses with specialist support through a structured programme of engagement, including diagnostic workshops, one-to-one consultancy, feasibility assessments and bespoke AI adoption roadmaps.
Participating businesses will be supported to explore practical AI solutions that can improve business performance, streamline processes and unlock new opportunities.
Minister for the Economy, Dr Caoimhe Archibald said: “I welcome the launch of this new AI Business Programme within the Mid Ulster Local Economic Partnership’s ambitious Action Plan.
“Through my Department’s Regional Balance Fund, Mid Ulster is receiving almost £3.9m to help boost the productivity and competitiveness of businesses in the area.
"The AI Business Programme will contribute to this by supporting local businesses to harness the transformational opportunities AI adoption can bring.
“This complements the work of my AI Advisory Panel, which is advising me on how we can use AI to drive economic growth, support businesses to adopt it responsibly and develop the skills needed to realise its benefits.”
Chair of Mid Ulster District Council, Councillor Deirdre Varsani, added: “The Mid Ulster LEP Action Plan sets out a clear and focused approach to supporting business development, improving productivity and creating economic opportunities across the district.
"The AI Business Programme is one of the first initiatives being delivered through the Action Plan, providing practical support to help businesses embrace innovation and make the most of emerging technologies.
“While AI offers significant potential to drive innovation, improve efficiency and enhance competitiveness, it is important that businesses embrace these technologies in a way that is informed, responsible and aligned with best practice.
"This programme will help ensure local businesses can realise the benefits of AI while developing the insight and confidence to apply it effectively, appropriately and in a way that supports long-term growth.”
Chair of Mid Ulster LEP, Councillor Dominic Molloy, said: “This programme reflects the LEP's commitment to ensuring that businesses across Mid Ulster can benefit from emerging technologies.
"Through access to specialist expertise and tailored support, businesses will have the opportunity to explore how AI could be applied within their own operations and make informed decisions about its future use.
"Our aim is to help businesses build confidence in this rapidly evolving area and better understand the opportunities that AI can offer.”
The AI Business Programme aims to increase awareness and understanding of AI technologies, build confidence in digital innovation and equip businesses with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions about future technology investment.
Through access to expert guidance and tailored recommendations, businesses will be better positioned to embrace digital transformation and strengthen their long-term competitiveness.
Applications are now open. Interested businesses can find out more and apply at: www.midulstercouncil.org/LEPProgrammes.
Just select the Artificial Intelligence Business Programme on the table and click ‘Open’.
The deadline for applications is 5pm on Wednesday 9 December.
Funding for the Local Economic Partnership is provided by the Department for the Economy through its Regional Balance Fund. Delivery is led locally by Mid Ulster District Council in collaboration with key economic partners.